One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania With Itinerary from Sofia to Plovdiv and Bucharest

BulgariaRomania
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 8-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Bulgaria and Romania guarantees unforgettable experiences 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 5 nights in Bulgaria and 2 nights 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, Bachkovo, Asenovgrad, and Ruse, 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 Romanian Athenaeum. 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 8-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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
National Palace of Culture
Regional History Museum SofiaSt Alexander Nevsky CathedralBoyana ChurchVitosha
Youth HillMonument of the Red Army "Alyosha"Tsar Simeon GardenSinging Fountains
Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie BogorodichnoAsen's FortressAncient Theatre of PhilippopolisRegional Ethnographic Museum PlovdivOld Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural ReserveNebet Tepe
National Museum of Romanian HistoryThe Church of the "Stavropoleos" Monastery
Palace of the ParliamentCișmigiu GardensRomanian AthenaeumKing Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CACotroceniCalea Victoriei
Monument of LibertyRegional Historical MuseumRock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
South Park

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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.

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 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 delicious dinner at Restaurant Vodenitzata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Saffron Indian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Island Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sofia.

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

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 104 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Regional History Museum Sofia
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Boyana Church
  • Vitosha
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria and Romania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sofia in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Sofia, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start by visiting Regional History Museum Of Sofia, a prime spot to begin your journey. This heritage-rich museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, another must-visit landmark and notable church renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Sofia by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Boyana Church. This photogenic church is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Vitosha Nature Park also adds charm to your journey.

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.

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.

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

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!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Sofia
  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 152 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Youth Hill
  • Monument of the Red Army "Alyosha"
  • Tsar Simeon Garden
  • Singing Fountains
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania. Today's main destinations are Plovdiv in Bulgaria, 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 Plovdiv. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Sofia. Your adventure starts at Youth Hill, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Alyosha Monument. This intriguing monument is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Sofia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. This eye-catching park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Singing Fountain is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Salt & Pepper, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rahat Tepe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, KFC is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Plovdiv.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rock Bar Download, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, North Star provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Morado Bar & Dinner offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Plovdiv
  • More

Drive 63 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Bachkovo Monastery "Uspenie Bogorodichno
  • Asen's Fortress
  • Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis
  • Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv
  • Old Town Of Plovdiv - Architectural Reserve
  • Nebet Tepe
  • More

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Plovdiv for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bachkovo in Bulgaria.

Immerse yourself in Plovdiv’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This picture-perfect monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Asen's Fortress, a must-visit castle in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, a well-known archeological site. For a change of scene, check out Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, known for its eye-catching features.

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

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Qbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Anyway Social Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Plovdiv 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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Plovdiv
  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 388 km, 5 hours 38 min

  • National Museum of Romanian History
  • The Church of the "Stavropoleos" Monastery
  • More

On day 5 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 Bucharest in Romania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is National Museum Of Romanian History. This locally appreciated museum is a photogenic place to see in Plovdiv. Continue your discovery at Stavropoleos Monastery, a history-steeped church with stories to tell.

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

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

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

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

Celebrate day 5 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 6

Day 6

  • Bucharest
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Palace of the Parliament
  • Cișmigiu Gardens
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • Cotroceni
  • Calea Victoriei
  • More

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bucharest. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A visit to Cotroceni in Bucharest is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Calea Victoriei as well, a street that adds another layer to your exploration.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Palace Of The Parliament. This locally appreciated palace is a breathtaking place to see in Bucharest. Continue your discovery at Cișmigiu Gardens, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bucharest, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Romanian Athenaeum. This locally renowned concert hall offers a visually striking encounter with Bucharest. Next, make your way to King Mihai I Park to add another highlight to your day. 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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bucharest. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Romania 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vatra Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Control Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wicked Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Manasia Hub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bucharest
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 402 km, 5 hours 53 min

  • Monument of Liberty
  • Regional Historical Museum
  • Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 - Ruse in Bulgaria. 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, breathtaking 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. Monument Of Liberty is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking monument before continuing your journey. Regional Historical Museum is your next stop. This locally appreciated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bucharest.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo. This majestic church is a sight to behold.

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

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 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into One More Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Teos Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bsd 2 Ndk, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Sofia - Departure day
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  • South Park
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On day 8 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.

Make the most of your final day in Bulgaria by visiting Sofia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Vitosha Boulevard. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Bulgaria.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting South Park, an eye-catching 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.

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

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