Google Maps Location Approx
Border Countries
🇧🇬 Bulgaria 🇷🇴 Romania
Nearest Cities
🇧🇬 Silistra, 🇷🇴 Ostrov
Coordinates
44.12°N, 27.28°E
Border Type
Land crossing via road
Operating Hours
Open 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wait Times
15-60 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (7-10 AM)
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles
Daily Crossings
~2000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
Bulgarian/Romanian
Currency Exchange
Limited near Silistra (BGN, RON, EUR)
Connectivity Options
Basic 3G coverage
Accessibility Features
Ramps, assistance
Safety Information
Rural, minimal crime
Emergency Contacts
🇧🇬 112/150 🇷🇴 112/112
Google Maps Location Approx
Country Information
About 🇧🇬 Silistra, 🇷🇴 Ostrov
A Crossing in the Historic Dobruja Region
The border crossing connecting the Bulgarian city of Silistra with Ostrov in Romania is a journey into the heart of the historic Dobruja region. This is a major regional checkpoint, but it has a unique feature: while the border itself is on land, a complete journey from Silistra to the main part of Romania requires a separate ferry crossing over the Danube River from Călărași. Since both Bulgaria and Romania are members of the European Union, this is an internal EU border with simplified procedures. To cross here is to travel through a landscape of ancient Roman history, medieval fortresses, and a complex, multicultural heritage that has been shaped by the proximity of the great river.
Operational Details
This checkpoint connects the Silistra Province of Bulgaria with Romania’s ConstanÈ›a County. It is a major regional crossing, open 24/7 to all passenger cars, buses, and commercial freight. The facility is located on the southern bank of the Danube, which forms the border for most of its length, but here the border cuts south across the land of Dobruja. The crossing is a vital link for the economies of the two regions, but travelers should be aware that to continue to Bucharest or most of Romania, a Danube ferry crossing from CălăraÈ™i is necessary, which adds time and cost to the journey.
A History of a Contested Land
The history of this region is the history of Dobruja, a land that has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia. The city of Silistra is one of the oldest in Bulgaria, the site of the important Roman city of Durostorum, a major fortress on the Danubian Limes. The region has been part of the Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Ottoman Empires. In the modern era, the region of Southern Dobruja, including Silistra, was a major point of contention between Bulgaria and Romania, being awarded to Romania after the Second Balkan War, and returned to Bulgaria in 1940. This complex history has left a rich multicultural legacy in the region.
The Simplified EU Border Procedure
Today, the border procedure is simplified due to both countries being in the EU. While neither country is yet a full member of the Schengen Area, the controls at their shared border are minimal. You will stop for a check of your documents (passport or national ID card for EU citizens) by both Bulgarian and Romanian border police, who work in close proximity. Customs checks are focused on commercial freight. The process is generally quick and efficient, with the main delay being the subsequent ferry journey for those heading further into Romania.
The Surrounding Region: Bulgaria Side
On the Bulgarian side, the crossing is in the historic city of Silistra. The city has a magnificent riverside park, the ruins of the Roman fortress of Durostorum, and a well-preserved Ottoman fort. The main attraction is the late Roman Tomb of Silistra, a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site, with beautifully preserved 4th-century frescoes. The Srebarna Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a vast wetland that is a paradise for birdlife, particularly the Dalmatian pelican, is also a short drive from the city.
The Surrounding Region: Romania Side
On the Romanian side, the crossing is in the village of Ostrov, which is known for its wine production. The area is part of the historic “Dobrogea” region of Romania. The road from the border leads to the major Danube port city of CălăraÈ™i, where the ferry departs. The ultimate destination for most travelers on this route is the major port of ConstanÈ›a on the Black Sea, with its ancient history as the Roman city of Tomis, its beautiful old town, and its bustling modern port, or the popular beach resorts of the Romanian Riviera.
Practical Travel Information
Practical planning for this route requires factoring in the Danube ferry. The ferry from CălăraÈ™i to Silistra is a separate service with its own schedule and fees. The official currencies are the Bulgarian Lev (BGN) in Bulgaria and the Romanian Leu (RON) in Romania. You will need to purchase electronic vignettes for your vehicle for both countries if you plan to use the main road networks. These can be bought online in advance. Ensure your vehicle’s Green Card insurance is valid for both countries.
Final Considerations
The Silistra–Ostrov border crossing is a journey through a land of deep and ancient history. It is a busy, functional checkpoint that serves as a gateway to the rich Roman and medieval heritage of Silistra and the Black Sea coast of Romania. The two-part nature of the journey, with the land crossing followed by the river crossing, makes it a unique and memorable experience. For the modern traveler, it is a fascinating passage through the historic and beautiful Dobruja region, a land shaped by empires and the enduring presence of the Danube River.