7-Day Road Trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo, Dumbrăveni, Bucharest, Craiova, Vidin, and City of Niš

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia 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 1 night.

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.

Park "Zaimov" is a travelers’ favorite in Sofia, 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 15,209 visitors.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Sofia. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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, Romania, and Serbia 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.

Savor the flavors at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Divaka beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Face bar & dinner. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Sofia tonight.

Keep the evening going at Halbite Beer Hall, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Lime Cafe & Cocktails, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 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 1 vibrant destinations - Sofia in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Veliko Tarnovo where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Veliko Tarnovo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Veliko Tarnovo beckons with new experiences!

A tour of Sofia is not complete without a visit to the famous National Palace of Culture. This incredible convention center and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,510 travelers.

Make the most of your Sofia travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful South Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,763 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral for an experience worth remembering. This local church and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,648 visitors.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Veliko Tarnovo. 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Bell is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Burger and Sweets "Асеневци". As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Veliko Tarnovo tonight.

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

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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 Dumbrăveni in Romania and Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dumbrăveni, Romania. This car ride takes around 3 hours 21 min.

In Dumbrăveni, the extraordinary Edenland Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,422 travelers' reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Veliko Tarnovo and set your GPS to Dumbrăveni, 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 3 hours 21 min. Upon reaching Dumbrăveni, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Veliko Tarnovo — Monument of Mother Bulgaria. About 2,765 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Tsarevets Fortress is another top sight in Veliko Tarnovo that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved sightseeing destination in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,802 visitors.

Park "Sveta Gora" is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Veliko Tarnovo, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,790 enchanted visitors.

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

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, Romania, and Serbia.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. 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 Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bucharest.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at QP Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Control Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bucharest. Wicked Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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 Craiova, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bucharest and set your GPS to Craiova. 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 3 hours 12 min. Upon reaching Craiova, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Bucharest is the fantastic Constitution Square. As an appreciated sightseeing destination and local gem in the area, Constitution Square has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,443 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Tineretului Park. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,293 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park, 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 31,456 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Cișmigiu Gardens. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,082 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA, a popular park and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 60,313 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Essenza Bar & Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Craiova. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, a popular restaurant in Craiova. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Dream On Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Craiova. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Miky's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gelateria SCENA provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Soho offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Craiova as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Craiova in Romania and Vidin in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in City of Niš, your home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Craiova, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Bulgaria! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vidin may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Vidin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Nicolae Romanescu Park is a travelers’ favorite in Craiova, 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 17,064 visitors.

In Craiova, don’t miss "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,139 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Craiova, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vidin, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Vidin, including the outstanding Baba Vida Fortress. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,162 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Галија, a top-rated dining destination in City of Niš. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Aleksića Tvrđava, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Етно кућа "Бисер", Niš. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in City of Niš this evening.

Keep the evening going at Beer Garden, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Hub - pub and club, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Vespa Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. Today's main destinations are City of Niš in Serbia, 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’ve had your share of City of Niš, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sofia, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 2 hours 8 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in City of Niš, including the outstanding King Milan Square. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,434 reviews, this fascinating sightseeing destination and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

City of Niš is also home to the captivating Park Čair, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 6,558 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Skull Tower is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in City of Niš. This extraordinary monument and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,637 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful St. Sava 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 10,230 reviews.

Soak in City of Niš's rich culture at the fantastic Niš Fortress. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in City of Niš is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,473 visitor reviews.

Sofia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of City of Niš behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. Sofia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Art Club Museum, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? J. J. Murphy's offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant "Staria Chinar". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

On day 7 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, Romania, and Serbia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria. Take home a piece of Bulgaria with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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, Romania, and Serbia.

Dine in style at Taj Mahal Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Manastirska Magernitsa Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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