13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Varna, Constanta, Bucharest, Brasov, and Ruse

On day 2 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous North Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,004 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,088 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible National Palace Of Culture for an experience worth remembering. This local convention center and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Borisova Gradina Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 27,635 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Sofia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Plovdiv. Your travel time is around 1 hour 35 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, Plovdiv’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 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Plovdiv'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, Plovdiv has them.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Salt & Pepper, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rahat Tepe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at KFC as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Plovdiv.

Keep the evening going at Rock Bar Download, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to North Star, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Morado Bar & Dinner, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the night falls in Plovdiv, 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 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 Varna, your home for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Plovdiv, including the outstanding Singing Fountain. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,640 reviews, this fascinating art installation and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Plovdiv is also home to the captivating “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 15,537 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Plovdiv. This extraordinary archeological site and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,893 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Burgas, 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 Plovdiv to Burgas may take around 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Burgas, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Burgas is the magnificent The Sea Garden. Around 35,099 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Staria Chinar Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Varna. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Varna at Pizza Selena, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Three Dolphins. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Varna tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Vogue Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cuba Beach Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Punta Cana 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 Varna to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

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

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Varna is the fantastic Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Dormition Of The Theotokos Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,169 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Clock Tower Of Varna. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 610 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Sea Garden, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,572 reviewers.

When you’ve had your share of Varna, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balchik. Your travel time is around 36 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balchik. This drive usually takes around 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Balchik Palace is a travelers’ favorite in Balchik, 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 19,803 visitors.

In Balchik, don’t miss Balchik Botanic Garden, a great botanical garden and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,545 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Öz Demir, a top-rated dining destination in Constanta. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 5 To Go, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Souvlaki Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Constanta this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Botanica is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rock Halle, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Barissimo. 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 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 - Constanta in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bucharest where you'll spend 4 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

The Casino Of Constanța is a travelers’ favorite in Constanta, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,093 visitors.

In Constanta, don’t miss The Casino's Promenade, a great boardwalk and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,958 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Constanta off your list when you visit the wonderful "modern" Beach. This popular sight is an outstanding beach, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,649 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding The Dolphinarium Of Constanța. This aquarium and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,264 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Vintage Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Newton Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Qp Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night 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 6, you will wake up in Bucharest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 3 nights left in Bucharest before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Romania.

King Mihai I Park is a travelers’ favorite in Bucharest, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,835 visitors.

In Bucharest, don’t miss Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,870 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Bucharest off your list when you visit the wonderful Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,249 travelers. Approximately 150,001 people visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Cișmigiu Gardens. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic "dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden awaits. This botanical garden is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,898 visitors.

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 Bucharest’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 Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vatra Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Control Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wicked Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 7 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Romania has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic National Museum Of Art Of Romania. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, National Museum Of Art Of Romania has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,056 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Carol Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,604 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of "children's World" Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,212 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Tineretului Park. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,528 visitor reviews.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Origo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Pub Bucharest, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 8 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 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bucharest, including the outstanding Radu Vodă Monastery. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,308 reviews, this fascinating monastery and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Bucharest is also home to the captivating Constitution Square, a local public square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 19,690 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Izvor Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Bucharest. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 19,456 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Bucharest Fountains will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing art installation and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,326 reviews.

Soak in Bucharest's rich culture at the fantastic "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Bucharest is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,714 visitor reviews.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bucharest. 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 delicious meal at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stadio Unirii. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Zeppelin Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Curtea de Argeș 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’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bucharest, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Curtea de Argeș. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Curtea de Argeș is not complete without a visit to the famous Fountain Of Manole. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,484 travelers.

Make the most of your Curtea de Argeș travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Curtea De Argeș Monastery. This monastery and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,772 travelers.

Set your GPS to Bran and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bran beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Bran is not complete without a visit to the famous Bran Castle. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 93,196 travelers.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Brasov. 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 Brasov. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Romania 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 delicious meal at Cucinino Pasta Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Brasov. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Am Rosenanger, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Birou Bistro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brasov this evening.

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

Celebrate day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10, you will wake up in Brasov with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Brasov before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Romania.

A tour of Brasov is not complete without a visit to the famous Tâmpa. This incredible mountain range and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,971 travelers.

Make the most of your Brasov travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Brașov City Hall. This public square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 16,872 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Nicolae Titulescu Park for an experience worth remembering. This local park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,010 visitors.

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

Savor the flavors at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Opus 9 beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Romantik. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brasov tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kasho Lounge after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Karma Lounge, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Street Cafe also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ruse and set your GPS to Pleven. 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 3 min. Upon reaching Pleven, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Pleven the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Skobelev Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,569 visitors.

After soaking in Pleven’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lukovit. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Lukovit, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lukovit today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Zlaten Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,316 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Riverside Landscape Park "panega". This incredible attraction and nature reserve holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 2,319 visitors.

According to travelers in Lukovit, the extraordinary Panega Eco Trail is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and hiking area is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,509 visitors.

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

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.

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

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

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