9-Day 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 the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Sofia for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Sofia in Bulgaria to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Regional History Museum Of Sofia. This up-and-coming museum is a heritage-rich place to see in Sofia. Continue your discovery at Patriarchal Cathedral Of St. Alexander Nevsky, a culturally significant church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sofia, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Boyana Church. This intriguing church offers an UNESCO world heritage-listed encounter with Sofia. Next, make your way to Vitosha Nature 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 Sofia.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Sofia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Bulgaria 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, Sofia has them.

Savor the flavors at Turkish Restaurant "Fidan", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Forum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turquoise Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

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 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the frequently visited Plovdiv Regional History Museum, a heritage-rich museum in Sofia. Next, go to Alyosha Monument.

After visiting Plovdiv Regional History Museum and Alyosha Monument, have a stroll along Sofia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Singing Fountain. This instagrammable art installation offers a unique experience. “tsar Simeon Garden” Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Roman Forum Of Philippopolis, one of the most respected places to visit in Sofia.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Salt & Pepper, an iconic dining spot in Plovdiv. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rahat Tepe, a popular restaurant in Plovdiv. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KFC, a hidden gem nestled in Plovdiv. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rock Bar Download. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Star, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Morado Bar & Dinner provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kapana Creative District, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bachkovo. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Plovdiv, including a monastery, an archeological site, a museum, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery "uspenie Bogorodichno". This notable monastery is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Ancient Theatre Of Philippopolis, which may be one of the most gorgeous places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Plovdiv on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, an intriguing museum in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Old Town Of Plovdiv and Nebet Tepe.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restorant "Stariyat Plovdiv", an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sofra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Central Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Plovdiv.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Wunderbaer - Hills Beer Bar & Shop, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Qbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Anyway Social Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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!

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 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Don’t miss Cotroceni in Sinaia today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the town’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Bucharest is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Peleș Castle, a widely recognized castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Sinaia Monastery, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at King Mihai I Park. This park is one of the town’s most top-rated spots.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vatra Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Control Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wicked Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub 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 relaxing.

Greet day 7 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 Bucharest 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 Bran in Romania.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bucharest. Begin your sightseeing with Bran Castle. This widely recognized castle is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Brașov City Hall, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bucharest, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Black Church (romania). This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rope Street, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Aubergine Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SkyBar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Origo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Pub Bucharest provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Pantheon Of National Revival Heroes. This increasingly popular monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Monument Of Liberty, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Fountain At Freedom Square, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Bucharest. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Regional Historical Museum. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this museum offers.

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.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sofiyska Banitsa, a top-rated dining destination in Sofia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel ZOO Sofia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar & Dinner Relax. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sofia this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting One More Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Teos Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bsd 2 Ndk also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.