One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia With Itinerary from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Craiova, and City of Niš

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Explore Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia on an epic 8-day European road trip. Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sinaia, and City of Niš await!

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 3 nights in Bulgaria, 3 nights in Romania, and 1 night in Serbia.

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, Veliko Tarnovo, and Vidin, 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, Sinaia, and Craiova, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Serbia. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of City of Niš.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bucharest’s Romanian Athenaeum and City of Niš's iconic Niš Fortress. 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, Romania, and Serbia 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, Romania, and Serbia. 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, Romania, and Serbia.

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
South Park
National Palace of CultureBorisova Gradina ParkSt Alexander Nevsky CathedralIvan Vazov" National Theater
Monument of Mother BulgariaPark "Sveta GoraTrapezitsa FortressTsarevets FortressMarno Pole Park
Peleș CastleDimitrie Ghica ParkKing Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CAAlexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )Romanian Athenaeum
Romanian AthenaeumCișmigiu Gardens"Carol I" ParkTineretului ParkConstitution Square
English ParkNicolae Romanescu ParkBaba Vida Fortress
King Milan SquareNiš FortressPark ČairSt Sava ParkSkull Tower
Park "Zaimov"

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Sofia - Arrival day
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  • South Park
  • More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia 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.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sofia, including the outstanding South Park. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,985 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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.

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

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

Your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia 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
  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • More

Drive 229 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • National Palace of Culture
  • Borisova Gradina Park
  • St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • Ivan Vazov" National Theater
  • More

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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 Sofia in Bulgaria. In the evening, you’ll end up in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Something that makes Sofia the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding convention center, National Palace Of Culture. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,569 visitors.

The famous Borisova Gradina Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Sofia's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 27,635 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Sofia is also home to the extraordinary Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 20,088 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating National Theater "ivan Vazov". With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,932 reviews, a visit to this wonderful performing arts theater and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Veliko Tarnovo 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 Restaurant "Ethno", a top-rated dining destination in Veliko Tarnovo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tavern "Petleto", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bell. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Veliko Tarnovo this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Famous Bar 2, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Grill Kolata is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Melodie / Melody Bar / offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 2 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 3

Day 3

  • Veliko Tarnovo
  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 190 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Monument of Mother Bulgaria
  • Park "Sveta Gora
  • Trapezitsa Fortress
  • Tsarevets Fortress
  • Marno Pole Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. 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 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Veliko Tarnovo is the magnificent Monument Of Mother Bulgaria. Around 2,801 visitors have rated this excellent monument and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Park "sveta Gora" 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 4,821 travelers.

The remarkable Trapezitsa Fortress is known to be one of the best places to visit in Veliko Tarnovo, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,202 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Veliko Tarnovo by exploring the captivating Tsarevets Fortress. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,913 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Veliko Tarnovo exploration list!

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Bucharest.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Vintage Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Newton Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Qp Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the night falls in Bucharest, 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

  • Bucharest
  • Sinaia
  • More

Drive 280 km, 4 hours 25 min

  • Peleș Castle
  • Dimitrie Ghica Park
  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Sinaia in Romania. With 1 night left in Bucharest, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Bucharest today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding King Mihai I Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,835 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 33,714 visitors.

According to travelers in Bucharest, the extraordinary Romanian Athenaeum is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and concert hall is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 14,475 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bucharest, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sinaia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Sinaia, including the outstanding Peleș Castle. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 62,721 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Sinaia is also home to the captivating Dimitrie Ghica Park, a local park considered one of the highlights of the town. About 15,720 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vatra Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight 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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bucharest
  • Craiova
  • More

Drive 243 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • Cișmigiu Gardens
  • "Carol I" Park
  • Tineretului Park
  • Constitution Square
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. 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 Craiova. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cișmigiu Gardens 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,510 visitors.

In Bucharest, don’t miss Carol Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,604 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Bucharest off your list when you visit the wonderful Tineretului Park. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,528 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Constitution Square. This public square and place of interest has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,690 reviews.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Craiova. 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.

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, Romania, and Serbia by rewarding yourself with a taste of Craiova’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 wonderful meal at Hotel Bavaria, a top-rated dining spot in Craiova. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mode Cafe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Essenza Bar & Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Craiova.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tipsy after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Miky's Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Gelateria Scena 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 6

Day 6

  • Craiova
  • Vidin
  • Niš
  • More

Drive 253 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • English Park
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • Baba Vida Fortress
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Craiova in Romania and Vidin in Bulgaria. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in City of Niš, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Craiova today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding English Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,389 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Nicolae Romanescu Park. This incredible attraction and park holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 17,275 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Craiova, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vidin, Bulgaria. Your travel time is around 1 hour 27 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Vidin, including the outstanding Baba Vida Fortress. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,272 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in City of Niš. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by City of Niš’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, Romania, and Serbia.

Make sure to book a table at Zlatkovic, a popular restaurant in City of Niš. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of City of Niš at Kafana Skadarlija, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Flert. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to City of Niš tonight.

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

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 7

Day 7

  • Niš
  • Sofia
  • More

Drive 165 km, 2 hours 51 min

  • King Milan Square
  • Niš Fortress
  • Park Čair
  • St Sava Park
  • Skull Tower
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of City of Niš in Serbia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sofia, your home for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable King Milan Square. This outstanding public square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 6,548 travelers, a visit to the remarkable King Milan Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Niš Fortress is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,732 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Park Čair. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,609 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated St. Sava Park, an outstanding public square, is one place you should visit while in City of Niš considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,335 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Skull Tower and discover what makes this local monument and wonder one of the best attractions in City of Niš. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 4,748 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to City of Niš and set your GPS to Sofia, Bulgaria. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 6 min. Upon reaching Sofia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Forum is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turquoise Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Sofia tonight.

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

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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Sofia - Departure day
  • More
  • Park "Zaimov"
  • More

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, Romania, and Serbia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Zaimov Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 15,334 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Zaimov Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

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, Romania, and Serbia.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel ZOO Sofia, 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, Romania, and Serbia with fond memories. Safe travels!

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