11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Brasov, Sibiu, and Belgrade

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Catch Boyana Church before the crowds roll in. This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the remarkable features of Borisova Gradina Park, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Eagles' Bridge, an interesting monument. For a change of scene, check out Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, known for its historic features. We also recommend visiting National Palace Of Culture. This convention center is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to South Park, yet another popular attraction in Sofia.

Bring home unique finds from Sofia's bustling shopping hub, Paradise Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Paradise Center offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Sofia boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Forum, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turquoise Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sofia. Urban Rebel is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence Plovdiv in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Plovdiv. This car ride takes around 1 hour 37 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a notable archeological site known for its gorgeous features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an intriguing museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Old Town Of Plovdiv and uncover the details of this history-steeped historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Alyosha Monument, an underrated monument. For your last stop, consider “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a mesmerizing park that many travelers find worth the detour.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Plovdiv. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Plovdiv's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Savor the flavors at Salt & Pepper, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rahat Tepe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider KFC. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Plovdiv tonight.

Keep the evening going at Rock Bar Download, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to North Star, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Morado Bar & Dinner, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Trapezitsa Fortress, a worthwhile archeological site in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Tsarevets Fortress. This popular castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Monument To The Assen Dynasty is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the worthwhile Monument Of Mother Bulgaria and discover what makes this monument unique.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arbanassi, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Arbanassi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an intriguing church that everyone visiting Arbanassi should see.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Veliko Tarnovo’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Veliko Tarnovo. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant "Ethno", an iconic dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tavern "Petleto", a popular restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Bell, a hidden gem nestled in Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Famous Bar 2, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Grill Kolata provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the night falls in Veliko Tarnovo, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Bucharest in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bucharest, your home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bucharest, Romania. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Romania. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 49 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Palace Of The Parliament, an intriguing palace that everyone visiting Bucharest should see. Next, head to King Mihai I Park. This romantic park is one of the most famous attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Arcul De Triumf Bucharest, a historic monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Romanian Athenaeum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned concert hall before you continue your journey.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Bucharest of your choice.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Bucharest. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? PAPILA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Complex Herăstrău. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Vintage Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Newton Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Qp Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia! Enjoy your evening in Bucharest to the fullest!

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bran in Romania. You will return to Brasov for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

No visit to Brasov is complete without Brașov City Hall. This popular public square is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Black Church (romania), another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Brasov, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Rope Street. This locally appreciated street is a traveler-favorite.

After soaking in Brasov’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bran. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Bran, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bran Castle, an extraordinary castle in Bran. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rasnov. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Elevator Fortress Mills is a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination we recommend visiting today.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Șimon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rasnov to Șimon may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Șimon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mănăstirea Bran. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Brasov. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia.

Make sure to reserve a table at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, an iconic dining spot in Brasov. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Opus 9, a popular restaurant in Brasov. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Romantik, a hidden gem nestled in Brasov. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kasho Lounge, known for its lively atmosphere. Karma Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Street Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Sibiu in Romania, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sibiu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Brasov’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sibiu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Sibiu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Astra" National Museum Complex is a notable museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Large Square, an enchanting public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by The Stairs Tower, a culturally significant historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit The Bridge Of Lies, a visually striking and truly unique historical landmark.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sibiu. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Sibiu’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Grădina Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Sibiu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Golden Tulip Ana Tower, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Continental. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sibiu this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Imperium Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Joyme Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Naf Naf provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!