10-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia from Sofia to Gabrovo, Bucharest, Ploiești, Sibiu, Timișoara, and Belgrade

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Sofia in Bulgaria. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Sofia for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Bulgaria to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Sofia before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Zaimov Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,334 visitors.

Find your way to your hotel in Sofia. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Sofia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Forum, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel ZOO Sofia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mamma Mia Ltd. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Halbite Beer Hall, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Sofia in Bulgaria, 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 Gabrovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Borisova Gradina Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,635 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular National Palace of Culture. This incredible attraction and convention center holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 14,569 visitors.

According to travelers in Sofia, the extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible point of interest, National Theater "Ivan Vazov". Up to 9,932 visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

When you arrive in Reduta, it's time to take a break from the road.

Geo Milev Park is a travelers’ favorite in Reduta, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,414 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Gabrovo. 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 dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Gabrovo. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Soprano Restaurant & Live Music Club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Strannopriemnitsa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vanilla coffee&food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gabrovo.

Cap off your dinner by heading to MODA BAR, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. ZAHIR - Bar & Dinner is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Music Bar and Dinner "Fashion" is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Boicheta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Something that makes Boicheta the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Ethno village Etar. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,399 visitors.

Veliko Tarnovo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gabrovo behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. Veliko Tarnovo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A tour of Veliko Tarnovo is not complete without a visit to the famous Marno Pole Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,692 travelers.

Make the most of your Veliko Tarnovo travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Tsarevets Fortress. This point of interest and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,913 travelers.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of 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.

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

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

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ploiești, where you will stay for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bucharest is the magnificent Cișmigiu Gardens. Around 37,510 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing King Mihai I Park on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 60,835 travelers.

The remarkable Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is known to be one of the best places to visit in Bucharest, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,249 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 150,001 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.

Dive deeper into Bucharest by exploring the captivating Tineretului Park. With a stellar average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,528 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Bucharest exploration list!

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Ploiești's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Romania 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, Ploiești has them.

Dine in style at Restaurant Elisium, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dublin GrillHouse Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant The New London. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Ploiești.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, KS Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Tony's Bikers Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Terasa Veritas is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sinaia in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sibiu where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ploiești and set your GPS to Sinaia. 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 58 min. Upon reaching Sinaia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sinaia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Dimitrie Ghica Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,720 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Peleș Castle. This incredible attraction and castle holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 62,721 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sinaia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bran may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Bran, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Bran, the extraordinary Bran Castle awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 93,196 travelers' reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Grădina Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Sibiu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Golden Tulip Ana Tower, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Continental. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Sibiu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Imperium Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Joyme Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Naf Naf is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

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

A tour of Sibiu is not complete without a visit to the famous The Bridge of Lies. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,797 travelers.

Make the most of your Sibiu travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful The Large Square. This sightseeing destination and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,542 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible "Astra" National Museum Complex for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,431 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Timișoara. This car ride takes around 3 hours 6 min.

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, Timișoara’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Romania's delectable cuisine at one of Timișoara's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Boutique Casa del Sole, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rivière Brasserie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Homemade. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Timișoara tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Scârț, a Chill Place after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The 80's Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Pisici Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Timișoara 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 Belgrade. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

In Timișoara, the extraordinary The Old Town of Timișoara awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,243 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Timișoara is the spectacular Libertății Square in Timișoara. This attraction is a square that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,724 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing piața Unirii. This local square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,805 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Victory Square is another attraction you might want to add to your Timișoara exploration itinerary. This square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,524 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — "Three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral. More than a popular church and attraction, "Three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Timișoara. "Three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,106 traveler reviews.

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

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 Belgrade’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.

Experience a taste of Iva New Balkan Cuisine in Belgrade by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Iva New Balkan Cuisine delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Istok, celebrated for its delectable vietnamese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kafana Mornar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Belgrade this evening.

Keep the evening going at Monkey Bar Belgrade, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Riddle Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Srpska Kuća Vina Lokal 2, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Belgrade 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!

Day 8 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Belgrade. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Belgrade is not complete without a visit to the famous Botanical Garden "Jevremovac". This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,012 travelers.

Make the most of your Belgrade travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Tašmajdan Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,184 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Kalemegdan for an experience worth remembering. This local hill and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 29,413 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Belgrade Zoo. This amazing site is a wonderful zoo with more than 24,507 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Belgrade’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, Romania, and Serbia.

Savor the flavors at Kalenic, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zvezdara Theater Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Трпеза - Народног фронта. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Belgrade tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at COCO BAR, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Svaštara Concept Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Okto Bilijar Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Take in the ambiance of Belgrade 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Belgrade in Serbia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

Something that makes Belgrade the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Republic Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 36,496 visitors.

The famous The Temple of Saint Sava is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Belgrade's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 34,534 travelers have rated this incredible church and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Belgrade, you’ll hit the road in the direction of City of Niš. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in City of Niš is the fantastic Niš Fortress. As an appreciated fortress and local gem in the area, Niš Fortress has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,732 reviews.

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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Sofia’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, Romania, and Serbia.

Savor the flavors at Divaka, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Face bar & dinner beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Art Club Museum. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

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

On day 10 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Sofia before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Bulgaria, take time to indulge in shopping at Sofia’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding South Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Get a last taste of Bulgaria’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Sofia and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ресторант VICTORIA България, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Best Western Plus Bristol Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Sofia for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 10-day European road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia with fond memories. Safe travels!