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

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sofia. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Sofia is brimming with adventures.

Catch Boyana Church before the crowds roll in. This inviting church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of Borisova Gradina Park, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Eagles' Bridge, an interesting monument. For a change of scene, check out Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting National Palace Of Culture. This convention center is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to South Park, yet another interesting attraction in Sofia.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Sofia's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Urban Rebel provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sofia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Old Town Of Plovdiv. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Alyosha Monument, a worthwhile monument. Conclude your sightseeing at “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, known for its romantic features.

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.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Plovdiv. 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, Romania, and Serbia.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rock Bar Download, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Star offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Morado Bar & Dinner. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

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 43 min. Upon your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Trapezitsa Fortress, an underrated archeological site that everyone visiting Veliko Tarnovo should see. Next, head to Tsarevets Fortress. This visually striking castle is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Monument To The Assen Dynasty, a detailed monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Monument Of Mother Bulgaria is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this curiosity-inducing monument before you continue your journey.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St. Nikolay The Miracleworker, an up-and-coming church that everyone visiting Arbanassi should see.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Veliko Tarnovo's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant "Ethno", a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Tavern "Petleto" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bell is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Keep the evening going at Famous Bar 2, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Grill Kolata, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo and set your GPS to Bucharest, Romania. 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 2 hours 49 min. Upon reaching Bucharest, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bucharest is Palace Of The Parliament, a worthwhile palace that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to King Mihai I Park, a mesmerizing park that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Arcul De Triumf Bucharest, a notable monument that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Romanian Athenaeum, a nearby concert hall, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bucharest. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Romania in a new light.

Don’t miss out on dining at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider PAPILA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Complex Herăstrău. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

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.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your European tour in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you’ll start and end your day in Bran, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Bran in Romania. Brasov remains your base for 1 night more.

Visiting Brașov City Hall is always a good idea. This locally renowned public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Black Church (romania), a must-see church in the village.

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 Rope Street. This worthwhile street offers an enriching experience.

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 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bran is Bran Castle, an astonishing castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rasnov may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Rasnov, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Elevator Fortress Mills, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Șimon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rasnov to Șimon may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Șimon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Mănăstirea Bran, an up-and-coming monastery known for its monumental features.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Brasov. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Opus 9? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Romantik as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brasov.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kasho Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Karma Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Street Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia! Enjoy your evening in Brasov to the fullest!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Sibiu 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.

When you’ve had your share of Brasov, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sibiu. Your travel time is around 2 hours 19 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering "astra" National Museum Complex, a captivating museum known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at The Large Square, a popular public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by The Stairs Tower and uncover the details of this respected historical landmark. Make sure to also explore The Bridge Of Lies, a well-known historical landmark.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Grădina Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Golden Tulip Ana Tower? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Continental as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight 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.

As the night falls in Sibiu, 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.