Travel packages in Bulgaria

Road trips in Bulgaria

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

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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 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Itinerary summary

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Days

Destination

Attractions

Overnight

Day

City & Overnight

Attractions

Day 1

National Palace of Culture

Day 2

Boyana Church•South Park•Borisova Gradina Park•Eagles' Bridge•St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral•Regional History Museum Sofia

Day 3

Bistritsa Waterfall•Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis•Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve•Tsar Simeon Garden

Day 4

Tsarevets Fortress•Children's Town Bucharest

Day 5

Constitution Square•The Triumphal Arch

Day 6

Kalemegdan•Tašmajdan•Saint Sava Temple•Stambol Gate

Day 7

Tsar Ivan Shishman Street

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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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 evening going at Grijn Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cairo Relax Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar National, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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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Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania has in store for you! You will be staying in Sofia for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sofia today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Boyana Church. This instagrammable church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to South Park and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Borisova Gradina Park. After exploring the park, head to Eagles' Bridge. This interesting monument is a highlight in Sofia. As your day continues, stop by Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, known for its awe-inspiring features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the frequently visited Regional History Museum Of Sofia. Enjoy exploring this incredible museum at your own pace.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kathrine Cocktail - Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Cocktail Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Urban Rebel is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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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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 Dupnitsa in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv, your home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sofia. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await! Bistritsa Waterfall is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most underrated places to visit in Sofia. Next, head to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a notable archeological site, known for its gorgeous features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This visually striking historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Plovdiv. 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 Plovdiv. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Salt & Pepper, a top-rated dining destination in Plovdiv. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rahat Tepe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KFC. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plovdiv this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rock Bar Download, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out North Star, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania. Today's main destinations are Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and Bucharest in Romania, 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 Bucharest. You’ll stay here 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 visually striking castle is a locally renowned place to see in Plovdiv. Then, wander over to Children's Town Bucharest. If instagrammable sites excite you, this amusement park will be right up your alley.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bucharest's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Romania 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, Bucharest has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider PAPILA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Complex Herăstrău. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Vintage Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Newton Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Qp Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania! Enjoy your evening in Bucharest to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

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 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Belgrade, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Bucharest covers several incredible sights, including a public square and a monument. Start your adventure at Constitution Square. This interesting public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Arcul De Triumf Bucharest, a must-see monument in the city.

These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Belgrade. 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 Belgrade. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Serbia 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.

Dine in style at Wurst Platz Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pub Kolonija boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kafana Mornar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Belgrade.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Monkey Bar Belgrade, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Riddle Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Srpska Kuća Vina Lokal 2 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Belgrade in Serbia. 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.

Today’s agenda in Belgrade includes a park, a church, and a monument. Kalemegdan is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tašmajdan Park, a popular park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to The Temple Of Saint Sava, a majestic church, also available for your discovery today.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Sofia. 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 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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, One More Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bsd 2 Ndk is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day 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.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Esterhasi Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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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