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

On day 2 of your European tour in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Sofia, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Sofia in Bulgaria. Sofia remains your base for 1 night more.

Make a stop at Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky located in Sofia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Boyana Church. Its instagrammable features will captivate you.

After soaking in Sofia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pernik. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Pernik, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vitosha Nature Park and explore the eye-catching features.

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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kathrine Cocktail - Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Urban Rebel is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plovdiv may take around 1 hour 37 min. Upon your arrival in Plovdiv, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site in Plovdiv. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Old Town Of Plovdiv. This beloved historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Alyosha Monument and discover what makes this monument unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park, a serene park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Bulgaria's delectable cuisine at one of Plovdiv'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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar Download, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, North Star offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Plovdiv. Morado Bar & Dinner is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Veliko Tarnovo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo may take around 2 hours 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Trapezitsa Fortress, an often recommended archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Tsarevets Fortress, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Next, explore Park "sveta Gora", yet another frequently visited place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Monument To The Assen Dynasty. This historic monument is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Marno Pole Park, a frequently visited park you won’t want to miss.

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.

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 Veliko Tarnovo’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Famous Bar 2, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Grill Kolata. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Melodie / Melody Bar /, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Bucharest in Romania. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bucharest, your home for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bucharest.

Set your GPS to Bucharest, Romania and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bucharest beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Palace Of The Parliament, a locally appreciated palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Constitution Square and admire its heritage-rich features.

When you’re ready, continue to Romanian Athenaeum, a notable concert hall beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Vintage Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Newton Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Qp Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Ruse in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sofia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ruse, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 1 hour 29 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Fountain At Freedom Square. Spend some time admiring the masterful features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Regional Historical Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ruse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ivanovo. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

Savor the day by heading to Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo, an up-and-coming church that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!