One-Week Road Trip in Bulgaria and Romania from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, and Pleven

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 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Sofia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Borisova Gradina Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 27,346 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Sofia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Bulgaria. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia 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 Mamma Mia Ltd, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Divaka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Face bar & dinner. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Halbite Beer Hall, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lime Cafe & Cocktails is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Sofia in Bulgaria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, your home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Veliko Tarnovo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated convention center and attraction in Sofia — National Palace of Culture. About 14,510 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular South Park is another top sight in Sofia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,763 visitors.

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is a spectacular church and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Sofia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,648 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Ivan Vazov National Theater. Because of its allure and charm, around 9,760 visitors have rated this attraction and point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

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 Veliko Tarnovo. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Bell, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Burger and Sweets "Асеневци". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Famous Bar 2, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Grill Kolata is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 - Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bucharest where you'll spend 3 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Veliko Tarnovo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Romania! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bucharest may take around 2 hours 51 min. Upon your arrival in Bucharest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Veliko Tarnovo, including the outstanding Monument of Mother Bulgaria. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,765 reviews, this fascinating point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Veliko Tarnovo is also home to the captivating Marno Pole Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the city. About 4,637 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Monument to the Assen Dynasty is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Veliko Tarnovo. This extraordinary point of interest and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,635 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Park "Sveta Gora" will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,790 reviews.

Soak in Veliko Tarnovo's rich culture at the fantastic Tsarevets Fortress. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,802 visitor reviews.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bucharest. 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 and Romania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bucharest’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 Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try PAPILA? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bucharest.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into QP Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Control Club offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Wicked Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Sinaia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Bucharest’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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Stadio Unirii is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Osho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bucharest tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Manasia Hub. Alternatively, go to Origo, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The PUB Bucharest provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Bulgaria 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 just relaxing.

On day 5, you will wake up in Bucharest with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Bucharest before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Bulgaria and Romania.

Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park is a travelers’ favorite in Bucharest, 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 31,456 visitors.

In Bucharest, don’t miss Constitution Square, a great sightseeing destination and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,443 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Bucharest off your list when you visit the wonderful Izvor Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,327 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This natural history museum and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,035 reviews. It’s estimated that around 150,001 people come to admire it every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA awaits. This park is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,313 visitors.

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 Bucharest. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Romanian Craft Beer, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of 18Lounge, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Arcade Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Zeppelin Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Take in the ambiance of Bucharest 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!

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

Set your GPS to Pleven, Bulgaria and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pleven beckons with new experiences!

In Bucharest, the extraordinary Romanian Athenaeum awaits. This attraction is a valued concert hall that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,073 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Bucharest is the spectacular Cișmigiu Gardens. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,082 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Tineretului Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,293 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Carol Park is another attraction you might want to add to your Bucharest exploration itinerary. This urban park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,367 reviews.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Pleven’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 Pleven. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pizzeria Cantonata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Дежа Вю Пица & Ресторант offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Snack Bar "Ledenika". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pleven.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Momento bar & pizza is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sky Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Кафе-Бар Бораго. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take in the ambiance of Pleven 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!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria and Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pleven in Bulgaria. 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.

After soaking in Pleven’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lukovit. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Lukovit, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Pleven is the magnificent Pleven Panorama. Around 6,118 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Skobelev Park on this leg of your adventure in Bulgaria. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 3,554 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Karlukovo. This car ride takes around 14 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Karlukovo, including the outstanding Prohodna. Having an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 8,756 reviews, this fascinating cave and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

After soaking in Pleven’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lukovit. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Lukovit, it's time to take a break from the road.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Lukovit is the fantastic Zlaten Park. As an appreciated point of interest and local gem in the area, Zlaten Park has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,150 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Panega Eco Trail. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,406 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

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 day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Sofia 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 Art Club Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider J. J. Murphy's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant "Staria Chinar". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this 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!

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.

As your final day in Bulgaria unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Sofia’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Bulgaria. Keep the spirit of your trip to Bulgaria alive with these special souvenirs.

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.

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