7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Bucharest

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Sofia in Bulgaria. Sofia remains your base for 1 night more.

Make a stop at Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Boyana Church. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pernik. This drive usually takes around 47 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vitosha Nature Park, a worthwhile nature reserve known for its instagrammable features.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel Forum offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turquoise Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Cocktail Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Urban Rebel, another top-rated place in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Sofia as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria and Romania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Plovdiv where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Old Town Of Plovdiv, another highlight in Plovdiv. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an instagrammable museum.

Nearby, you will also find Alyosha Monument. This often recommended monument is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a romantic park that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Plovdiv.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Plovdiv’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Bulgaria and Romania.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania, 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.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Veliko Tarnovo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 43 min. When you arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Trapezitsa Fortress, a frequently visited archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress and admire its symbolic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Park "sveta Gora", a frequently visited park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Monument To The Assen Dynasty, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Marno Pole Park, a photogenic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Famous Bar 2, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Grill Kolata is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

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.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bucharest may take around 2 hours 49 min. Upon your arrival in Bucharest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Palace Of The Parliament, an up-and-coming palace in Bucharest. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Constitution Square. This captivating public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Romanian Athenaeum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking concert hall in the region.

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

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 and Romania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bucharest’s local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of PAPILA, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Complex Herăstrău, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at The Vintage Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Newton Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Qp Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Bucharest as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Ruse in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Ruse, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ruse beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Fountain At Freedom Square. Spend some time admiring the remarkable features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Regional Historical Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Ivanovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ruse behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Ivanovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo, an up-and-coming church known for its culturally significant features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Sofia. 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.

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Sofia's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Make sure to reserve a table at Sofiyska Banitsa, an iconic dining spot in Sofia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel ZOO Sofia, a popular restaurant in Sofia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar & Dinner Relax, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. One More Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Teos Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bsd 2 Ndk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the night falls in Sofia, 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.