5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Bucharest

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Photo of Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 5 days. The journey covers Bulgaria and Romania, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Bulgaria and 1 night in Romania.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Bulgaria, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Sofia and begin your adventure from there. Explore Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Romania. Immerse yourself in the allure of Bucharest, where every street tells a story.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bucharest’s Constitution Square. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 5-day self-drive adventure in Bulgaria and Romania. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Bulgaria and Romania.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • National Palace of Culture
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Romania 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 2 nights.

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.

Sofia is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out National Palace Of Culture, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Grijn Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cairo Relax Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar National. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria and Romania 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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 242 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • Eagles' Bridge
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Sveta Nedelya Church
  • Rila Monastery
  • More

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Sofia is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Borisova Gradina Park, an interesting park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Eagles' Bridge, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. This church is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sofia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Cathedral Of Saint Nedelya. After exploring the church, head to the interesting Rila Monastery.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Urban Rebel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Sofia, 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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 405 km, 5 hours 48 min

  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Constitution Square
  • More

On day 3 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 Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Sofia on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting castle, Tsarevets Fortress. Afterward, continue to Constitution Square, a public square every traveler should visit.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bucharest. 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, PAPILA beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Complex Herăstrău. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Vintage Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Newton Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Qp Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bucharest
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 386 km, 5 hours 24 min

  • Palace of the Parliament
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 - Bucharest in Romania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sofia where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Bucharest on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palace Of The Parliament is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic palace before continuing your journey.

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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Sofia. 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 Sofiyska Banitsa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel ZOO Sofia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar & Dinner Relax as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at One More Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sofia - Departure day
  • More
  • South Park
  • More

On day 5 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 and Romania. 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, Paradise Center. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting South Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.

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 and Romania.

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 5-day European road trip in Bulgaria and Romania with fond memories. Safe travels!

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How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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