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

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.

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 Eagles' Bridge is known to be one of the best places to visit in Sofia, and its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 10,319 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Sofia by exploring the captivating Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,088 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Sofia exploration list!

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.

Dine in style at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Forum boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turquoise Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Ruse where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sofia is the fantastic Zaimov Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Zaimov Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,334 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Druzhba Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,598 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Reduta.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Reduta is the fantastic Geo Milev Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Geo Milev Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,414 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lukovit. This car ride takes around 1 hour 42 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated hiking area and attraction in Lukovit — Panega Eco Trail. About 3,509 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant "Pontoon", highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bistro "Lake"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Godfather as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ruse.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Black & White. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Frame offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bowling, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 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 Ghighiu in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sinaia, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Ruse, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghighiu, Romania. Your travel time is around 2 hours 7 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Ghighiu is the fantastic Orthodox Monastery Ghighiu. As an appreciated monastery and local gem in the area, Orthodox Monastery Ghighiu has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 9,853 reviews.

Bușteni’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ghighiu behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min. Bușteni welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Bușteni is the magnificent Cantacuzino Castle. Around 20,212 visitors have rated this excellent castle and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Caraiman Monastery on this leg of your adventure in Romania. This attraction is a well-known monastery that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 12,081 travelers.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sinaia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Romania to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Sinaia has them.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Cascade Sinaia, a top-rated dining destination in Sinaia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Licorna Restaurant & Wine Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Tirol. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sinaia this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at La Cafenea, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar 33 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Sinaia.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania. Today's main destinations are Sinaia 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 Brasov. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 Sinaia Monastery. This incredible attraction and monastery holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 11,435 visitors.

According to travelers in Sinaia, the extraordinary Peleș Castle is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 62,721 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bran. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Bran — Bran Castle. About 93,196 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bran, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brasov. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cucinino Pasta Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Am Rosenanger is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Birou Bistro. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brasov tonight.

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

As the night falls in Brasov, 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 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Brasov in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bucharest, your home for 3 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Brasov, including the outstanding Tâmpa. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,971 reviews, this fascinating mountain range and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Brasov is also home to the captivating Arlechino Theater, a local sightseeing destination considered one of the highlights of the city. About 236 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Brașov City Hall is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Brasov. This extraordinary public square and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,872 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Nicolae Titulescu Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,010 reviews.

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

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 Bucharest'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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top-rated dining spot in Bucharest. If you're in the mood for something new, try PAPILA, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Complex Herăstrău. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bucharest.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Vintage Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Newton Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Qp Pub. 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!

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bucharest. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

A tour of Bucharest is not complete without a visit to the famous "dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden. This incredible botanical garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,898 travelers.

Make the most of your Bucharest travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,249 travelers and gets around 150,001 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible Romanian Athenaeum for an experience worth remembering. This local concert hall and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,475 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 33,714 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vatra Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Control Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wicked Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Manasia Hub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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.

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Romania has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic Tineretului Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Tineretului Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,528 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary "children's World" Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,212 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest, a standout museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,870 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Arcul De Triumf Bucharest. This monument is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,562 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent King Mihai I Park, a popular park and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 60,835 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bucharest'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, Bucharest has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider Aubergine Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SkyBar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Origo, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Pub Bucharest offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bucharest in Romania. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

In Bucharest, the extraordinary University Square awaits. This attraction is a valued public square that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,751 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Bucharest is the spectacular Cișmigiu Gardens. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,510 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Izvor Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 19,456 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Constitution Square is another attraction you might want to add to your Bucharest exploration itinerary. This public square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,690 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Carol Park. More than a popular park and attraction, Carol Park offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Bucharest. Carol Park boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,604 traveler reviews.

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

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 Veliko Tarnovo. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant "Ethno", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tavern "Petleto" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bell. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 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 - Plovdiv in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sofia where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Plovdiv and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Plovdiv beckons with new experiences!

Singing Fountain is a travelers’ favorite in Plovdiv, 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 12,640 visitors.

In Plovdiv, don’t miss “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,537 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Plovdiv off your list when you visit the wonderful Ancient Stadium Of Philipopolis. This popular sight is an outstanding archeological site, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,842 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. This archeological site and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 reviews.

After soaking in Plovdiv’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sofia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive in Sofia, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hotel ZOO Sofia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar & Dinner Relax is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Sofia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, One More Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Teos Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bsd 2 Ndk is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.