7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv, Bucharest, and Belgrade
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 7 days. The journey covers Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Bulgaria, 1 night in Serbia, 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, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Serbia. Immerse yourself in the allure of Belgrade and City of Niš, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Romania. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Bucharest.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Belgrade’s Kalemegdan and Bucharest's iconic 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, Serbia, 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 7-day self-drive adventure in Bulgaria, Serbia, 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, Serbia, and Romania.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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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, Serbia, 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.
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 delightful dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Saffron Indian Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Island Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sofia.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Grijn Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cairo Relax Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar National also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Serbia, 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.
Day 2
- Sofia
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Boyana Church
- South Park
- Borisova Gradina Park
- Eagles' Bridge
- St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Regional History Museum Sofia
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On day 2, you will wake up in Sofia with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Sofia before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania.
Get ready for an exciting day in Sofia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a park, a monument, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Boyana Church. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is South Park, a notable park in Sofia.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Borisova Gradina Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eagles' Bridge, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a breathtaking place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Regional History Museum Of Sofia to your itinerary. This worthwhile museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Sofia.
Visit Paradise Center in Sofia for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Paradise Center has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Serbia, 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.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Urban Rebel provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Take in the ambiance of Sofia 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!
Day 3
- Sofia
- Plovdiv
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Drive 263 km, 4 hours 45 min
- Bistritsa Waterfall
- Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
- Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
- Tsar Simeon Garden
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On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Serbia, 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 Dupnitsa in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plovdiv, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Sofia, including a waterfall, an archeological site, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Bistritsa Waterfall. This often recommended waterfall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis located in Sofia for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Old Town Of Plovdiv. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the region with a visit to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This park has a mesmerizing appeal.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Plovdiv. 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, Serbia, and Romania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Plovdiv’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.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Rock Bar Download, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. North Star is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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.
Day 4
- Plovdiv
- Bucharest
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Drive 395 km, 5 hours 41 min
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Children's Town Bucharest
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and 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.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Plovdiv, including a castle and an amusement park. Start your day at Tsarevets Fortress. This enchanting castle is a popular place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Children's Town Bucharest. If eye-catching sites excite you, this amusement park will be right up your alley.
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.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Serbia, 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 delicious dinner at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? PAPILA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Complex Herăstrău. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Vintage Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Newton Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Qp Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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!
Day 5
- Bucharest
- Belgrade
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Drive 603 km, 8 hours 19 min
- Constitution Square
- The Triumphal Arch
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania, 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 Belgrade, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Bucharest on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting public square, Constitution Square. Afterward, continue to Arcul De Triumf Bucharest, a monument every traveler should visit.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Belgrade of your choice.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Belgrade’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, Serbia, and Romania.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Wurst Platz Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Belgrade. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pub Kolonija, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kafana Mornar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Belgrade this evening.
Keep the evening going at Monkey Bar Belgrade, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Riddle Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Srpska Kuća Vina Lokal 2, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 6
- Belgrade
- Sofia
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Drive 401 km, 4 hours 53 min
- Kalemegdan
- Tašmajdan
- Saint Sava Temple
- Stambol Gate
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania. Today's main destinations are Belgrade 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.
Today's adventure in Belgrade promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Kalemegdan. This visually striking park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Tašmajdan Park, another majestic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Temple Of Saint Sava, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Stambol Gate Of Nis Fortress. This history-steeped monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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 sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia'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, Sofia has them.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sofiyska Banitsa, a popular restaurant in Sofia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sofia at Hotel ZOO Sofia, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bar & Dinner Relax. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Sofia tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting One More Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Teos Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bsd 2 Ndk also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Sofia - Departure day
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- Tsar Ivan Shishman Street
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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, Serbia, and Romania. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Maximize your last day in Bulgaria and go on a shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping center, the lively Paradise Center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Bulgaria.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Tsar Ivan Shishman Street, a street that captures the true essence of Sofia. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
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, Serbia, and Romania.
Dine in style at Mamma Mia Ltd, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esterhasi 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, Serbia, and Romania with fond memories. Safe travels!
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