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

Sofia is brimming with adventures.

Start your day at Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This heritage-rich museum is a frequently visited place to see in Sofia. Then, wander over to Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky. If breathtaking sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Boyana Church. This culturally significant church is a favorite among visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pernik. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Pernik is Vitosha Nature Park, an intriguing nature reserve that draws attention for its 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", 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 Forum, 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 Turquoise Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Sofia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kathrine Cocktail - Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Urban Rebel likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Plovdiv in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Plovdiv, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Plovdiv. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Youth Hill. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Alyosha Monument. This locally appreciated monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to “tsar Simeon Garden” Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, take your journey to Singing Fountain, a captivating art installation.

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

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 Plovdiv’s local cuisine.

Dine in style at Salt & Pepper, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rahat Tepe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out KFC. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight 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.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 4 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 Bachkovo in Bulgaria. With 1 night left in Plovdiv, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Visiting Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis is always a good idea. This interesting archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, a must-see museum in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Old Town Of Plovdiv. This worthwhile historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Nebet Tepe, where you can take in visually striking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bachkovo may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Bachkovo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Bachkovo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Asenovgrad. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Asenovgrad, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Asen's Fortress, an increasingly popular castle in Asenovgrad. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Qbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

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 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Bucharest, Romania and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 5 hours 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bucharest beckons with new experiences!

National Museum Of Romanian History is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Stavropoleos Monastery, a romantic church that’s well-regarded in the area.

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 sun sets, 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.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Vintage Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Newton Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Qp Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!

Wake up and see what day 6 of your great European road trip in Bulgaria and Romania has in store for you! You will be staying in Bucharest for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

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. Make sure to visit Cotroceni, a popular neighborhood in Bucharest. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Calea Victoriei today, a street that’s well worth a visit.

Palace Of The Parliament brings Bucharest's character to life. This culturally significant palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Cișmigiu Gardens, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Romanian Athenaeum, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its respected features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of King Mihai I Park. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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 Bucharest’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Bucharest. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vatra Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bucharest.

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

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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria and Romania. Today's main destinations are Ruse 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 Sofia. You’ll stay here 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 Ruse.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bucharest, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ruse, Bulgaria. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Bulgaria. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Monument Of Liberty, a beloved monument that everyone visiting Ruse should see. Next, head to Regional Historical Museum. This history-steeped museum is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ivanovo. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rock-hewn Churches Of Ivanovo and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining spot in Sofia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel ZOO Sofia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bar & Dinner Relax. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria and Romania! Enjoy your evening in Sofia to the fullest!