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

On day 2, you will wake up in Sofia with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Sofia before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Romania.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Sofia is the magnificent National Palace Of Culture. Around 14,569 visitors have rated this excellent convention center and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Borisova Gradina Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 27,635 travelers.

The remarkable Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating National Theater "ivan Vazov". With a stellar average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,932 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

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 Sofia’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Forum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turquoise Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kathrine Cocktail - Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Urban Rebel. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Plovdiv in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Plovdiv, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sofia to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,893 reviews, this fascinating archeological site and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis, a local archeological site considered one of the highlights of the city. About 7,842 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Singing Fountain will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing art installation and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Romania, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Plovdiv. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Romania! Enjoy your evening in Plovdiv to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria and Romania. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Veliko Tarnovo where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Plovdiv, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 2 hours 44 min. Upon your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A tour of Veliko Tarnovo is not complete without a visit to the famous Tsarevets Fortress. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,913 travelers.

Make the most of your Veliko Tarnovo travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Park "sveta Gora". This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,821 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Monument To The Assen Dynasty for an experience worth remembering. This local monument and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,689 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. This amazing site is a wonderful monument with more than 2,801 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining spot in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tavern "Petleto", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bell. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Veliko Tarnovo.

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.

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 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sinaia in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brasov, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sinaia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 54 min.

Peleș Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Sinaia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 62,721 visitors.

In Sinaia, don’t miss Sinaia Monastery, a great monastery and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,435 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Sinaia off your list when you visit the wonderful Dimitrie Ghica Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,720 travelers.

After soaking in Sinaia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brasov. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 55 min. When you arrive in Brasov, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Brasov the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding public square, Brașov City Hall. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,872 visitors.

The famous Nicolae Titulescu Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Brasov's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 9,010 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Set your GPS to Brasov and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brasov beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cucinino Pasta Bar, 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 Am Rosenanger, 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 La Birou Bistro, a hidden gem nestled in Brasov. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Musik Cafe, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Michele Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Juno Wine Garden ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ruse in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ruse, your home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brasov and set your GPS to Ruse, Bulgaria. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 3 hours 50 min. Upon reaching Ruse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Ruse today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Ecomuseum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,205 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Regional Historical Museum. This incredible attraction and museum holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 1,521 visitors.

According to travelers in Ruse, the extraordinary Monument Of Liberty is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and monument is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,688 visitors.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Ruse. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Bulgaria in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Pontoon", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bistro "Lake" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Godfather. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ruse tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Black & White, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Frame provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bowling offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Ruse as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Ruse in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sofia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Ruse — "prista". About 1,217 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ruse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vratsa. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Vratsa, including the outstanding Etnografsko-vazrozhdenski Kompleks "sofronij Vrachanski". Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 255 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Vratsa is also home to the captivating Vratsa History Museum, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 762 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

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

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Sofia has them.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.