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

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sofia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sofia in Bulgaria.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Regional History Museum Of Sofia, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This well-known church is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Boyana Church. This photogenic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Vitosha Nature Park is also worth visiting.

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.

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.

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

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Romania! 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 relaxing.

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 Plovdiv in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, your home for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This curiosity-inducing museum is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This stunning historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Alyosha Monument is also worth visiting, along with “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Plovdiv. 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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rock Bar Download offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, North Star is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Morado Bar & Dinner is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania. Today's main destinations are Veliko Tarnovo 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 Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Trapezitsa Fortress. This underrated archeological site is a picture-perfect place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Tsarevets Fortress, a history-steeped castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Plovdiv, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This frequently visited monument offers a picture-perfect encounter with Plovdiv. Next, make your way to Monument Of Mother Bulgaria to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Plovdiv.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Veliko Tarnovo. 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 and Romania.

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.

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

On day 5 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Veliko Tarnovo covers several incredible sights, including a palace, a public square, a park, a concert hall and much more! Start your adventure at Palace Of The Parliament. This frequently visited palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Constitution Square, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to King Mihai I Park. This extraordinary park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Romanian Athenaeum, where you can take in enchanting features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Bucharest. 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 Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, PAPILA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Complex Herăstrău is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Vintage Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Newton Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Qp Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria and Romania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sinaia in Romania. With 1 night left in Bucharest, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Peleș Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sinaia Monastery, a well-known monastery, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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

Savor the flavors at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vatra Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Control Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wicked Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 - Brasov in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brasov where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bucharest, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Tâmpa, a notable mountain range in the city. Then, head to Black Church (romania) and soak in the ambiance of this inviting church.

There are many interesting places to see in Bucharest, and when you are ready for more, go to Brașov City Hall. This is one of the city’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the up-and-coming The White Tower. Not far away, you'll also find Nicolae Titulescu Park. This park is a serene highlight in Bucharest.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brasov’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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cucinino Pasta Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Am Rosenanger offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Birou Bistro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brasov.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Musik Cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Michele Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Juno Wine Garden is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Brasov 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 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bran in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sibiu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Brasov promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bran Castle. This enchanting castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy "astra" National Museum Complex, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Large Square, one of the village’s most popular attractions, known for its enchanting features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of The Bridge Of Lies. This visually striking historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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 Sibiu'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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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!

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 Varna in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Varna, your home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Sibiu. Begin your sightseeing with Wall Of Heroes. This often recommended monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Varna Seaport Lighthouse, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Sibiu, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Clock Tower Of Varna. This increasingly popular monument is a traveler-favorite.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Varna. 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 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Varna'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, Varna has them.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pizza Selena is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Three Dolphins. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Varna tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vogue Cafe Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cuba Beach Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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